Porsche 944

The Porsche 944 was a high performance sports car produced by German auto manufacturer Porsche. It was introduced in 1982 to replace the Porsche 924 as their entry level model, although the two cars were sold in parallel for a number of years. Production ended in 1991 when it was replaced by the Porsche 968. The 944 was a huge success for Porsche throughout the 1980s, and was available in several forms throughout its evolution: 944, 944S, 944 Turbo, and the 944S2.

History

The 944 was introduced in 1982 with a 2.5L straight-4 engine whose design was based on one half of the Porsche 928's V8 engine. Compared to the 924, the 944 had updated bodywork and many improved parts such as its engine, brakes etc.

The 944's engine used the patented balance shaft technology developed by Mitsubishi (as used in the 2.6 L Astron engine) to minimise vibration. Porsche had to pay Mitsubishi a fee of $8 for every engine using this system.

In mid-1985 the 944's underwent its first significant changes. The interior's ergonomics and air conditioning system was improved and the radio antenna also moved from a standard vertical position to being embedded in the windshield. The alternator was upgraded from a 90 amp alternator to a 115 amp alternator. Other changes included a change in oil sump capacity, new front and rear cast aluminum control arms and semi-trailing arms, a larger fuel tank, optional heated and powered seats, revised starter, and revisions in the mounting of the transaxle to reduce noise and vibration. The "cookie cutter" style wheels used in the early 944s were upgraded to the new "phone dial" style wheels.